Essex mums' campaign to tackle dangerous online challenges in schools stepping up in new year
Their ‘Click or Quit?’ initiative is educating children and parents on online safety risks
Two mothers from Essex, Hollie Dance and Lisa Kenevan, have been tirelessly campaigning to raise awareness about the dangers of online challenges. Both women tragically lost their sons, Archie Battersbee and Isaac Kenevan, and believe their deaths were linked to dangerous online trends. Their initiative, ‘Click or Quit?’, aims to educate children and families about online risks through impactful school assemblies.
Hollie says they have visited 18 schools so far, sharing her story. Hollie said, “The feedback we get from parents is really good. It's the hard-hitting message of two mums who no longer have their children that’s having that impact.”
Lisa Kenevan added that the campaign is also adapting to new online trends: “We’ve learned about certain platforms, and how sinister things have got. Everything we learn mirrors the next school presentation. Two schools this year even went phone-free after hearing what we had to say.”
Ms Kenevan has voiced concerns about government inaction, noting Australia’s under-16s social media ban as a step towards safeguarding children. However, she feels the UK government lacks the resolve to introduce similar measures.
‘Click or Quit?’ assemblies have been developed with 1decision, Ellen Roome, Lisa Kenevan, and Hollie Dance. They include vital topics, such as recognising the risks of online challenges, understanding age restrictions, and fostering positive online experiences. A powerful video featuring Ellen Roome’s story is part of the sessions.
Schools across the UK can access free sessions, while a parent/carer version is also available to encourage conversations at home. Resources include guidance and support from the Be Challenge Aware campaign.
Dance and Kenevan hope their work will prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak, with plans to extend their initiative further next year.